Military Science Minor

Return to: College of General Studies

Housed in the College of General Studies and offered by the Army ROTC Program at the University of Pittsburgh, this 19-credit minor gives undergraduate students a unique opportunity to explore military leadership, decision-making, and national defense.

The program helps students build real-world skills that support both professional and personal growth. It pairs well with majors like political science, history, criminal justice, public service, business, and other fields that involve leadership, planning, and teamwork. This minor is also a great option for students interested in careers with government agencies such as the Department of Defense, Homeland Security, or the State Department, as well as with private companies that work with the military.

Eligibility

Students must be currently enrolled in the Army ROTC Program and working toward commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army to pursue this minor.

Students Will Learn

This minor covers key topics in Military Science, Leadership, and Army Operations. Students begin by learning about:

• The structure and roles of the U.S. Army
• Army ranks and responsibilities
• Basic leadership and teamwork skills

As students continue, explore more advanced topics like:

• Military decision-making and tactical planning
• Problem-solving and mission execution
• Cultural awareness and leading diverse teams
• How military operations have shaped U.S. and global history

Hands-On Leadership Experience

In the third and fourth years, students will have the chance to take on leadership roles in simulated Army units, such as Platoons, Companies, or Battalions. These roles help develop skills in:

• Planning and organizing missions
• Communicating clearly and effectively
• Leading teams and managing operations
• Writing and interpreting Army orders using the Army Operations Process

Students also take part in physical fitness training and weekend leadership labs. These are required for Army ROTC students who plan to commission as Second Lieutenants with the US Army following their graduation.

Students will take part in a “Staff Ride” which will serve as an applied field experience. During this staff ride, students will tour a battlefield, learn about the tactics, leaders, consequences and outcomes from the battle.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to and stay in the Military Science and Leadership Minor, students must:

• Be enrolled in the Army ROTC Program by the beginning of their junior year
• Meet all Army ROTC contractual requirements by the beginning of their junior year
• Maintain a minimum semester GPA of 2.00
• Earn a passing grade in each course required for the minor

Coursework

In order to complete the minor, students will take the courses as outlined below.